Building on the convention theme “Leadership for Architecture. Leadership Beyond Architecture”, Lee Quill FAIA discussed recommended lessons and experiences as one of four panelist that included Stuart Coppedge AIA, William Fisher AIA & Carl Schueler, AICP, in a session titled “Expanding the Architect’s Influence as Civic Leader: Best Practices”. The panel provided best practices and examples of how architects in the AIA Colorado South chapter (Colorado Springs), and nationally, came together to position individuals and the chapter in the forefront as recognized leaders in their community, advocationg for the importance of design in shaping livable and sustainable communities while elevating the profile and value of architects.

An integral part of this initiative was the AIA Colorado South / Pikes Peaks Region being awarded a national AIA Sustainable Design Assessment Team (SDAT) grant. Teaming with National AIA staff members Joel Mills and Erin Simmons, SDAT Team leader Lee Quill led a interdisciplinary team of national experts in urban design, planning, regional governance and market economics in an indepth study of Colorado Springs and the surrounding Counties. The final SDAT Report recommended a heirarchy of initiatives for helping the Colorado Springs community develop a unitfied vision of regionwide sustainability as well as providing a template for how architects can be the link between vision and reality.